AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Public Health (APH) on Tuesday announced it launched a campaign called “Ending the HIV Epidemic” to highlight local resources, testing and treatment as the number of diagnoses for the virus is on the rise in Travis County.
APH said in a release that for the fourth year in a row, Travis County has seen a “steady rise in new HIV diagnoses.” The organization said it launched the campaign as part of its continued efforts, and hopes it will highlight local resources such as testing and treatment available to support those who have tested positive for HIV and “stem the rise in new cases.”
“While testing positive for HIV is a life-changing experience, it doesn’t have to be a life-ending one,” said APH Director Adrienne Sturrup in the announcement. “Our teams are here to not only provide services in a clinic – they’re also here to support you as you receive the treatment you need.”
According to APH, the recent rise has been across Black, Latine, Transgender Individuals and white populations, with a majority of new cases involving men who have sex with men. APH also said data shows that Black women who have sex with men are the fastest growing demographic nationally.
With treatment, HIV can become undetectable as the viral load is reduced. The benefit of HIV becoming undetectable means the virus is untransmittable to someone who has not tested positive for HIV, APH said.
Low-cost or no-cost testing, treatment and more resources are available at the following locations:
- APH’s Sexual Health Clinic
- ASHWell
- CommUnity Care
- Texas Health Action (KIND Clinic)
- Vivent Health
APH said counseling is available for those who test positive for HIV.
An all-in-one HIV healthcare center focused on bringing affordable medical services for those living with HIV also opened in central Austin at the beginning of this month.
Several local organizations offer prescription assistance to help get prescriptions filled at zero or low cost.
Providers across the community also offer HIV support groups. Peer support has been shown to have a positive impact on HIV+ individuals making them more likely to properly take medications, stay active and experience a better quality of life, according to APH.
Visit the HIV Ends With U website to learn more about HIV and the resources available in the Austin community.